How to Make Your Own Sleep Mask

Handmade remnant fabric sleeping masks deliver big on beauty rest - they're the perfect gift for new moms in need of shut-eye or jet-setting friends enduring time zone shifts. Keep a few around the house for when you need a little R&R - they're also a nice (and easy!) addition to any guestroom night kit.

Things You'll Need

Cotton fabric scraps

Felt

1/2 inch elastic

Straight pins

Decorative trim

Sewing machine

Coordinating thread

Scissors

Mask template

Poly batting

Pencil

Iron and ironing board

Fabric glue (optional)

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Step 1: Print Template and Cut Pattern Pieces

Print and cut out a mask template from the free download here. Cut out one front mask piece, one back mask piece, and one poly filler piece.

(Image: Lindsey Crafter) (Image: Lindsey Crafter)

Step 2: Add Appliqué Details

If you would like to add felt appliqué facial features, cut them out and top stitch them onto your mask.

Step 3: Pin and Sew

Align the presser foot with the edge of the fabric and sew a straight stitch along the edge of the mask, leaving a 2-inch gap on either side.

(Image: Lindsey Crafter)

Step 4: Snip Curves

Before turning right-side out, snip 1/8-inch cuts along the curved edges of the mask. Cut a notch at the nose of the mask an 1/8 inch away from the seam to create a sharper corner when inverted.

(Image: Lindsey Crafter) (Image: Lindsey Crafter)

Step 5: Turn Corners

Gently turn your mask right-side out, using a pencil eraser to help round out the edges.

(Image: Lindsey Crafter)

Tip

Press your mask before adding filling or attaching elastic.

Step 6: Insert Batting

Fold the poly batting in half and gently work into the side of the mask -- use a pencil eraser to work into corners if needed.

(Image: Lindsey Crafter)

Step 7: Measure and Attach Elastic

Temporarily pin elastic to the sides of the mask to measure around your head for a comfortable fit. Give yourself a 1/4 inch extra on each side to insert into open side seams. Fold in extra seam allowance, insert elastic and pin before sewing into place.